DALLAS — Democratic state Rep. James Talarico used a national television appearance Monday to trace the roots of his politics, defend his legislative record and argue he can win the race for Senate by building a broad coalition.

The Senate Democratic primary in Texas has taken an ugly turn, with the increased infighting threatening to complicate the party’s chances of flipping the seat in November. The most notable incident came this week when former Rep.

Democrats Jasmine Crockett and James Talarici differed more on style than substance in their first debate for U.S. Senate in heavily Republican Texas.

Jasmine Crockett is a two-term member of Congress and former state representative running for the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate. She is well-known for her outspoken stance on issues. She is a progressive who said she's connecting with Texans across the state, in cities and the rural parts of Texas.

Former Congressman Colin Allred had dropped out of the U.S. Senate race hours before Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett entered, becoming state Rep. James Talarico's opponent. The Texas Democratic Party leader said he wants candidates to get along.

Texas Democrat James Talarico said atheists are more “Christ-like” than Christian lawmakers, prompting scrutiny of his claims against Christian doctrine.

After coming under fire for some earlier comments about Latinos, Crockett is working to narrow Democratic rival James Talarico’s lead among the key voting bloc.